What is stoma?
A stoma is a surgically created opening on your abdomen that allows waste to exit the body. It is a round or oval opening in your abdomen where a small part of your digestive tract – typically the small intestine – is brought to the surface and kept in place to facilitate waste removal from your body.
It may be created due to various medical conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or diverticulitis.
What are the different types of stoma?
Colostomy
A colostomy involves creating an opening from the large intestine (colon) to the surface of the abdomen to divert waste. This procedure is often necessary due to conditions such as colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, or traumatic injury to the colon. The waste from a colostomy is typically more formed compared to other types of stomas because it has passed through a portion of the colon where water absorption occurs.
Ileostomy
An ileostomy, on the other hand, involves creating an opening from the small intestine (ileum) to the abdominal surface, bypassing the colon entirely. This type of stoma is commonly performed for individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The output from an ileostomy is typically liquid to semi-liquid and can be more frequent since it bypasses the colon where water would normally be absorbed.
Urostomy
A urostomy is created to reroute urine away from a diseased or malfunctioning bladder. This type of stoma is often necessary due to bladder cancer, neurogenic bladder, or severe bladder dysfunction. The output from a urostomy is continuous and consists solely of urine.
In what situations would a person require a stoma?
Stomas are essential for a person who has digestive-related conditions. These may include:
- Treating various health complications, including bowel cancer and Crohn’s disease
- Any trauma to the abdomen or digestive system, such as an injury
- Neurological disorders disrupting your digestive functions
- Genetic disorders that affect your digestive system
What does a stoma look like?
Stoma will appear pinkish or reddish, while appearing slightly moist and shiny; this is how a healthy stoma will look. The colour of your stoma can give you an indication of its current condition. Dark red or purplish stomas may indicate bruising has happened, while pale pink stomas are a sign of poor blood flow.
How to manage daily life living with a stoma?
Stoma supplies needed
Caring for a stoma at home requires the preparation of supplies to ensure the stoma remains clean, and protected. Here is a list of items you may need:
Stoma bags
Also known as ostomy pouches, the function of stoma bags is to collect waste. They come in two different types, and you may choose between them to suit your needs.
One-piece system
When it comes to one-piece systems, the pouch and skin barrier come pre-attached in one piece. Patients will have to only attach it to their body over the stoma.
Two-piece system
In a two-piece system, on the other hand, the pouch and skin barrier are separated, and the patient does not have to remove the entire system every time they change their pouch.
Deodorants
If you have a stoma, you may worry about the possibility of unpleasant odours. There are deodorants designed specifically for stoma bags that can help manage and minimise these odours, allowing for greater confidence when it comes to social interactions. These deodorants come in various forms such as drops, tablets, and sprays, and can be added directly to the stoma bag.
Skin barriers
These may be referred to as wafers, barriers, or flanges, and can come in different styles and sizes to accommodate the needs of patients. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you can opt for gentle adhesives to reduce the risk of skin irritation. If you are unsure of which skin barrier to choose, you can speak with your doctor who will provide you with guidance.
Cleaning supplies
The skin around the stoma will have to be cleaned regularly to reduce the risk of infection. This can be done through the use of skin barrier wipes, and adhesive remover wipes to keep the skin healthy.
Dietary changes
While there are no set dietary rules for those who are living with a stoma, you may be asked to limit the intake of food that contributes to the production of gas, such as baked beans and fizzy drinks. You may also be advised to include fruits and vegetables as part of your daily meal, along with sticking to a regular schedule when it comes to eating.
You should also always stay hydrated; drink at least 8 to 10 glasses a day, equal to about two litres of water.
However, as each stoma is different, we recommend speaking with your doctor as they can provide guidance based on your specific needs and type of stoma.
Read more about: After Surgery Stoma Care
Lifestyle adjustments
When thinking about living with a stoma, the first concern that comes into your mind may be how it will affect your work, travel, or leisure activities. This concern is valid, but with some lifestyle adjustment, you can lead a fulfilling life. For example, before you leave for work or travel, you will need to pack stoma bags and cleaning wipes, along with taking note of where the nearest medical facilities are in case you need further assistance.
Psychological support
Having a stoma may cause feelings of embarrassment and lead to a dip in confidence. This can also lead to a want to isolate oneself to avoid having it potentially being brought up in conversations. This is where psychological support comes in, as it plays a crucial role in helping individuals adjust to life with a stoma. Such support could take the form of counselling, support groups, or having a trusted person who can lend a listening ear.
Common Concerns When Living with a Stoma
Travelling with a stoma
A stoma should never stop you from doing whatever you want, including travelling abroad. Here are some tips to help you manage your stoma with little difficulty.
- You should bring sufficient stoma management supplies and medication (if needed) with you. As a precaution, you should also bring double the amount of supplies you usually use.
- Look into travel insurance with coverage for stomas and any other conditions you may have.
- Be mindful of what you eat and drink to avoid untoward incidents during your trip.
- As a safety precaution, only use bottled water to clean your peristomal area and stoma. Unfiltered tap water may not always be safe, so it would be better to play it safe.
Stoma Leakage
Stoma leakage can sometimes happen without warning due to a stomach upset, an improperly fitted stoma bag, or a change in your diet, causing more frequent bowel movements that quickly fill up the stoma bag.
If it concerns your stoma, first ensure that the stoma bag fits securely around it with no gaps; this will also ensure that waste matter does not affect your skin. You may also need to measure your stoma to determine if it has changed in size. If it has, you will need to adjust the size of the template and ensure a comfortable, tight fit to cover the stoma.
Stoma Bleeding
Stomas may sometimes bleed when you clean them; this is normal as there is a high concentration of blood vessels near the top of the stoma. There is no need to panic if you notice bleeding around the stoma. However, if you find the bleeding is coming from inside the stoma, or if it still bleeds even after you gently wipe it, contact your doctor immediately. If you have any doubts about the bleeding, you should still contact your doctor as a precaution.
What are the important aspects of caring for your stoma at home?
When it comes to caring for your stoma at home, there are several important aspects you will have to take note of such as:
Hygiene
Before touching your stoma, or changing the stoma bag, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps prevent infection and ensures a clean environment for stoma care.
Skin health
To protect the health of the skin around your stoma, avoid using products that contain alcohol or perfume as they could irritate the stoma. When you are changing your stoma bag, you should also inspect the skin around it for signs of redness or breakdown.
Appliance fitting
Your doctor may recommend stoma appliances of a certain type or customisation to fit your stoma. However, you will also have to measure your stoma regularly to note any changes in size, especially during the first 6 weeks after surgery, and if you are to gain or lose weight.
Types of clothing
When it comes to living with a stoma, prioritise comfort when choosing clothing and ensure it does not irritate the skin around it. This may include loose shirts and dresses, as well as clothing with adjustable features like drawstrings, and elastic waistbands.
Do you or a loved one need stoma care at home?
If you or a loved one is interested in learning more about stoma care at home, feel free to contact us at SOZO Wound and Stoma Care.
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